What to Expect When Expecting (..A Bone Graft)

Need a dental implant but don’t have sufficient jaw bone? Dental implants are the most effective option when it comes to replacing a tooth. However, if in order to successfully get an implant, you need to have an adequate amount of jawbone. If you don’t, then you will need a bone graft before getting the actual implant. Bone grafting is when an oral surgeon will use a special bone grafting material to anchor it onto your jaw bone, thus increasing its’ strength and density. Although the procedure may sound pretty scary, we can promise you it’s nothing of the sort. Below are some things to expect when getting a bone graft!
First, it’s important to keep in mind that dental implant surgeries are most often performed in stages. The first stage is the removal of the damaged tooth.Generally, the bone graft is placed directly after the tooth extraction at the same appointment. In some cases, bone grafting is needed to be placed or can be placed with the dental implant. Once the jawbone heals, you’ll be able to move on to the next stage, which is setting up the base for the dental implant using a titanium post. After this heals, the prosthetic tooth will then be inserted.
Recovery time is often based on the size of the bone graft and implant. We recommend avoiding intense physical activity for the first ten days. Swelling is expected (as it always is after most surgical procedures); it’s your body’s reaction to the surgery. Most swelling won’t be apparent until the day following your surgery. To help aid your swelling, Ice packs can be applied to the outside of the mouth for 24 hours after surgery, 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
As always, if you have any questions regarding the procedure, or simply want to discuss the details further, simply call our office @ Arizona Center For Implant, Facial & Oral Surgery Phone Number 623-931-9197.